Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Ha Long is also known for its variety of distinctive local specialties that make excellent gifts. If you’re wondering what to bring home from your trip, here are the must-try items!
📍 Ha Long Squid Cake (Chả Mực) – The Iconic Favorite
You can find this specialty at Lang Chai Squid Cake Shop (Bai Chay), Hong Hanh Store, and Ha Long Market 1 & 2.
💰 Price range: 350,000 – 500,000 VND/kg
Made from fresh cuttlefish and traditionally hand-pounded, Ha Long’s squid cake is loved for its springy texture and deep flavor.
👉 Storage tip: Keep frozen and fry until crispy golden before enjoying.
📍 Dried Sipunculus Worm (Sá Sùng Khô) – A Rare Seafood Treat
Available at Ha Long Market, Vuon Dao Market, and reputable seafood stores.
💰 Price range: 1,500,000 – 4,000,000 VND/kg
This premium dried seafood enhances the taste of pho broth and can be stir-fried or grilled.
👉 Buying tip: Look for golden-brown, fragrant worms with no signs of mold for top quality.
📍 “Ngán” Clam – A Unique Coastal Flavor
Sold at local seafood restaurants and Ha Long Market 1 & 2.
💰 Price range: 300,000 – 500,000 VND/kg
This clam offers a richer taste than regular cockles and is even used to create a distinct liquor.
👉 Storage tip: Store live ngán in seawater or on ice to maintain freshness.
📍 “Nodding Cake” (Bánh Gật Gù) – A Tasty Local Snack
Pick it up at Ha Long Market or Ba Cu Nodding Cake Shop.
💰 Price range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND/portion
This rice-based dish is soft, chewy, and served with scallion oil and braised pork sauce, perfect as a light snack.
👉 Note: Best enjoyed fresh as it doesn’t store well.
📍 Ha Long Shrimp Floss (Ruốc Tôm) – A Savory Side Dish
Available at Ha Long Market and specialty supermarkets across Quang Ninh.
💰 Price range: 300,000 – 450,000 VND/kg
Made from fresh shrimp, this fluffy, flavorful floss pairs well with rice, porridge, or bread.
👉 Storage tip: Keep in a dry place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
📍 Ha Long Dried Squid (Mực Khô) – A Classic Seafood Gift
Find it at Ha Long Market 1 & 2 or trustworthy dried seafood shops.
💰 Price range: 800,000 – 1,500,000 VND/kg
Known for its thick, naturally sweet meat and rich aroma when grilled, this is a go-to souvenir for seafood lovers.
👉 Buying tip: Opt for pinkish squids with straight bodies and a fine white coating.
📍 Quang Ninh Milk Oysters (Hàu Sữa) – Fresh and Nutritious
Sold at Ha Long Market and Hon Gai Fishing Port.
💰 Price range: 100,000 – 150,000 VND/kg
These creamy oysters are naturally sweet and perfect for grilling, porridge, or steaming with herbs.
👉 Storage tip: Always buy live for optimal taste and freshness.
📍 “Ngán” Liquor – A One-of-a-Kind Drink
Available at seafood restaurants, local specialty shops, and Ha Long Market.
💰 Price range: 200,000 – 500,000 VND/liter
Made from ngán clams, this liquor has a deep red hue and bold flavor, ideal for adventurous drinkers.
👉 Note: With a mild alcohol level, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
🔥 Whether you’re into gourmet snacks, dried seafood, or local delicacies, Ha Long has something special for everyone. Take a piece of this coastal paradise home with you by picking up these unique and flavorful souvenirs!